Definition: Saturated fats are fatty acids in which the carbon backbone consists entirely of single bonds. (Carbon atoms can bind together by either single or double bonds.) In the diet, saturated fats are found mainly in animal products, but are also present in certain plan foods, especially coconut and palm oils.
A high dietary intake of saturated fats has been associated with elevated levels of LDL cholesterol, and increased cardiac risk. Most guidelines for a heart-healthy diet recommend limiting saturated fatty acids to less than 10% of daily caloric intake.
